True and Fascinating Canadian History
A Saint
Pope John Paul II
I served at Toronto's International Aipoprt Detachment as a Patrol Sergeant for four years (1979 to 1983).
Upon my transfer from the Airport Detachment, I was honoured to have been selected by the CO, Assistant Commissioner R. M. Culligan as the Security NCO at St. Michael's Cathedral in downtown Toronto, ON
For about one year leading up to the historic visit to Canada of Pope John Paul II, hundreds of Canadians police officers workedon security arrangements at various places in particular provinces that the Pope intended to visit.
Upon his arrival at St. Michael's Cathedral, I had the honour to meet John Paul I. His visit to the Cathedral was a hugh successand there were no threats against the tight security systems which had been put into effect.
And to think that all the while I was in the presence of a Saint.
Weeks later, upon the Pope's return to Rome, I was honoured again, as a member of the RCMP, to receive his special Papal Blessing.
The Pope's visit to St. Michael's Cathedral was another highlight in my long and rewarding career.
I am also appreciative to Assistant Commissioner Ralph Culligan of Toronto, ON. He gave me a once in a lifetime opportunity to serve the RCMP on the Papal Visit to Canada in 1984.